Yamaha SG1820A

A 2010 overhaul for the instrument that put Japanese guitars on the map

Our Verdict

If you're looking for a meaner looking and sounding modern Les Paul alternative, look no further than this

Pros

Metal looks; strong and contemporary feel; outstanding finish quality

Cons

A little heavy and lacks some of the SG1802's P-90-style-pickups' character

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One for the metalheads?

Yamaha SG1820A

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Yamaha SG1820A

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The SG1820A is none more metal - both in style and tone

Yamaha SG1820A

Launched in 1973, Yamaha's third generation of SG six-strings changed the perception of the Japanese guitar, from copies to serious instruments on a par with their US equivalents.

Developed in close association with Carlos Santana, the classic SG2000 arrived on the scene in 1976 and was characterised by impeccable Japanese craftsmanship, individual double-cutaway styling and various original construction and hardware features.

The SG2000's newfound star association, coupled with those unique, sustain-enhancing features - such as Yamaha's T-Cross neck-thru system and bridge Sustain Plate - propelled the SG into the hands of many other top players, such as Robben Ford, Larry Carlton and even Bob Marley.

While the SG3000, SG2000 and SG1000 models have remained remarkably unchanged and are still part of Yamaha's electric line, 2010 sees the launch of the SG1800 series: three new models all built in limited numbers at Yamaha's Music Craft Workshop in Japan.

Following the classic Yamaha SG pattern, the new trio have some radical updates creating a guitar more in-tune with modern requirements. Most obvious are simpler cosmetics and the inclusion of 'custom shop' appointments: Seymour Duncan and EMG pickups, Tone Pros bridge/tailpiece, Graph Tech Tusq nuts, CTS pots, Switchcraft toggle switches and locking Grover tuners.

Importantly, each is quite specifically aimed at a type of player and Yamaha is unofficially referring to the 1820A as the SG Modern.

Construction-wise, all the guitars in the 1800 range are identical, Yamaha opting for a more traditional build style, with not a through-neck in sight. Instead, the trio uses more conventional glued-in mahogany necks with a classic combination of mahogany body topped by a new, deeper carved maple top.

Created in conjunction with heavy metal juggernauts Mastodon, the 1820A is definitely a guitar for those of us who prefer things loud, louder and louder again. And as it's equipped with the ultimate metal combo of an active EMG 81 and 85 set, it promises to deliver nothing less than full, unbridled power.

Like the other guitars in the new 1800 series, the 1820A's hardware is of the highest quality, though the black nickel hardware featured here, including metal knobs, looks particularly cool alongside the flawless silverburst finish and the menacing look of those twin EMGs.

Sounds

Listen to our SG1800 series demo to hear the SG1802 in action and compared to its siblings:

In comparison to its two counterparts in the 1800 range, the SG1820A, equipped with its active high-output EMGs, doesn't offer much in terms of dynamics, though that's not what they're designed for.

The SG1820A, by design, is a different beast altogether. We go straight for the gain control and are immediately swamped with lashings of sustaining distortion and ripping heavy rock and metal tones. The EMG 81 isn't a touch-sensitive subtle pickup - it likes to rock and as we dig in it only picks up its aggression. The Mastodon theme really suits here and it's a whole lot of fun to play too.

Switching to the neck, the EMG 85 here is very direct and has a raspy edge around the note, though it's far from mushy or even harsh, in fact for high-octane solos in the vein of Kirk Hammett, it's ideal.

What's obvious is that Yamaha Music Craft's philosophy of offering players' the highest build quality, individual styling and excellent playability is certainly not lost on these three new additions to the SG range.

Alongside this, they'll only be available in limited quantities due to their hand-crafted construction, so you might have to be quick if you want to track one down.

All three guitars in the SG1800 series offer a very viable alternative to the likes of the Les Paul, and with their extensive high-end spec, bullish looks and beautiful finishing they're sure to offer a match to any Gibson in terms of construction and style.

Of course, thanks to the Les Paul's undeniable heritage, not everyone will see these SGs as being quite so classic.

Of the range it's clear to see why the 1820 is being referred to as the SG Modern; compared to the vintage tones of the 1802 or the generic rock/blues feel of the 1820 the 1820A has modern, gained rock written all over it. Yet all three are strong instruments - it's up to you, you can't miss.

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